--> Abstract: Interpretation of Postdepositional Processes Related to Formation and Destruction of Uranium Deposits in Sandstones, by S. S. Adams; #90968 (1977).

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Abstract: Interpretation of Postdepositional Processes Related to Formation and Destruction of Uranium Deposits in Sandstones

S. S. Adams

Uranium deposits in sandstones most commonly occur in continental sediments where they formed through the postdepositional precipitation of uranium from moving groundwaters. The preference of these epigenetic uranium deposits for continental and, in particular, fluvial sandstones reflects the importance of the postdepositional hydrology and groundwater geochemistry of these sediments, as well as their intrinsic physical and chemical characteristics. Postdepositional processes also commonly destroy or redistribute epigenetic sandstone uranium mineralization. Thus, predictive genetic and exploration models need to interpret the evidence for and significance of all postdepositional processes.

Many investigations have been made of the uranium deposits of the Grants mineral belt of New Mexico. Features such as redistributed carbonaceous material and assemblages of altered and authigenic silicate minerals are known to be associated with the uranium deposits. Our investigations, conducted principally in the Jackpile Mine area, suggest that these features are related genetically and that the history of these deposits is more complex than generally has been inferred. Some authigenic phases, for example, kaolinite, illite-montmorillonite, and quartz, formed during more than one period during the formation and destruction of the uranium deposits. The identification and interpretation of the evidence of these multiple processes have improved genetic models and exploration methods i New Mexico and other uranium districts.

AAPG Search and Discovery Article #90968©1977 AAPG-SEPM Annual Convention and Exhibition, Washington, DC